What savings does the Minister expect the National Library and Archives NZ to make this year, if any, and what alternatives to staffing cuts were considered for making those savings, if any?

Answer

The Department of Internal Affairs has been asked to make 2 percent savings this financial year, and it has met this requirement through reductions in the costs of its corporate shared services. I am advised that Archives New Zealand and the National Library face cost pressures largely driven by property, inflation, and remuneration. I understand both institutions have sought savings through reduced forecast expenditure in areas such as property operations, travel, and training as part of managing these pressures. Proposed staffing reductions are focused on closing vacant positions where possible and seeking to minimise the impact. My expectation is that Archives New Zealand and the National Library will continue to live within their baseline funding by prioritising expenditure to meet their statutory obligations.